GMV Spearheads ESA's Mission to Revolutionize Satellite Navigation with LEO Technology

GMV Spearheads ESA's Mission to Revolutionize Satellite Navigation with LEO Technology
by Hugo Ritmico
Madrid, Spain (SPX) Mar 27, 2024

In a significant advancement for satellite navigation technology, the European Space Agency (ESA) has selected GMV, a global technology firm, for a pioneering mission. This 78.4 million euro project aims to demonstrate the potential of Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites for enhancing Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) services. Traditionally, satellite navigation systems have depended on Medium-Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites. The move towards a multi-layered system incorporating LEO satellites promises users enhanced signal strength, reliability, and precision.

This comprehensive contract mandates GMV to lead the mission's entire spectrum, from satellite and payload development to launching services and the establishment of a Ground-Segment-as-a-Service (GSaaS). Furthermore, it encompasses the creation of a test user receiver, system operations, and the demonstration of LEO-PNT services to end users. A constellation of five satellites will materialize this vision, starting with a 12U Cubesat-based technology demonstrator set to launch within 20 months from the project's inception. The subsequent deployment of four additional satellites by 2027 will complete the constellation.

The LEO-PNT initiative is set to transmit sophisticated signals across UHF, L, S, and C bands, supplementing existing navigation signals from systems like Galileo and GPS. A novel feature, the "LEO shield," will offer an integrity determination function, ensuring real-time assessment of GNSS signals' integrity on the LEO satellites and providing immediate alerts in case of signal compromise.

GMV's role extends beyond mission leadership, involving a consortium of industry heavyweights such as OHB System AG, Alen Space (now a part of GMV), Beyond Gravity, and Indra. Each partner brings unique expertise to the table, from OHB's experience in manufacturing Galileo satellites to Alen Space's prowess in Cubesat platforms and payload components. Beyond Gravity will contribute to the development of the PNT payloads, while Indra will coordinate the experimentation and validation campaigns to showcase the LEO satellites' advantages for PNT services.

The project team also includes 14 end-user representatives and stakeholders across the LEO-PNT ecosystem, covering sectors from maritime navigation to indoor positioning and critical infrastructure. This collaborative effort underscores the mission's wide-ranging impact on various industries, promising a future where LEO satellite technology redefines global navigation systems. Through the LEO PNT In-Orbit Demonstrator (IOD) mission, GMV is not only advancing its role in the European aerospace sector but also opening avenues for next-generation navigation systems.